Provenance of M's Vauxhall HQ painting aside, what do ya guys and gals think about the significance of the painting itself? I just noticed this upon a second viewing of the film, earlier today. Hadn't seen the film since opening day. And this 'lil bit struck me.
For my part, I'm hoping that they've temporarily gone into the old MI6 HQ building, whilst Vauxhall is being repaired. Despite what was likely extensive damage, the entire building didn't blow up and collapse, after all. Not to mention that the Vauxhall building is not only 'the real deal', but it's also an iconic fixture along the Thames.
That said, if they hopefully move back into the Vauxhall building, I wouldn't mind M's office continuing to look much as it did at the end of 'Skyfall'.
Oh, and MarkTMurphy, while Mallory doesn't seem to be a naval man, I did also spot a naval painting on the office's right hand wall (if facing M's desk). Perhaps another nod to Sir Miles Messervy?